Lesson 2

Lesson 2: Graphs of Quadratic Functions

 

Focus

 

A batter focuses intently on the path of a baseball once it leaves the pitcher’s hand. The batter has only a fraction of a second to predict the ball’s speed and path and to decide to swing at the ball. If the batter decides to swing, the player must predict where the ball will be so that the bat can connect with the ball at the proper place and angle. The batter’s brain is predicting the path of the pitched fastball. This path can be accurately described mathematically using a quadratic function.

 

 

In this lesson you will look at how to analyze the characteristics of a quadratic function using its graph. The graph of a quadratic function can be useful in predicting the path of a baseball or other projectiles.

 

Lesson Questions

 

This lesson will help you answer the following inquiry questions:

• What characteristics of a quadratic function can be identified from the graph of the function?
  
  
• How can you tell the number zeros of a quadratic function given the coordinates of the vertex and the value of a in the quadratic function?

Assessment

• Lesson 2 Assignment

All assessment items you encounter need to be placed in your course folder.

 

Save a copy of the Lesson 2 Assignment to your course folder. You will receive more information about how to complete the assignment later in this lesson.

 

Materials and Equipment

• graph paper

You may find it helpful to use 1-cm Grid Paper.